A convicted sex offender, Hadush Kebatu, is now back in Ethiopia, deported after a chaotic series of events that ignited public outrage. His removal marks the end of a troubling episode that exposed critical failures within the UK’s immigration and prison systems.
Kebatu, who arrived in the UK aboard a small boat, was found guilty of sexual assault just weeks ago. Instead of immediate deportation, a stunning error led to his accidental release from HMP Chelmsford, sparking a nationwide manhunt. He was mistakenly directed to a railway station by prison staff, leaving authorities scrambling to locate him.
The fugitive was eventually apprehended in Finsbury Park, London, sitting on a bench. But the story didn’t end there. Kebatu claimed he attempted to surrender to police the day before his capture, alleging an officer ignored his pleas for assistance. Authorities dispute this account, stating his actions suggested he was actively avoiding arrest.
Adding to the controversy, it emerged Kebatu had attempted to secure a “facilitated return scheme,” a program offering financial assistance to foreign nationals willing to leave the country. His application was denied, but a subsequent £500 payment was made after he threatened to disrupt his deportation flight. This payment drew fierce criticism, labeled an “absolute disgrace” by Conservative officials.
The justification for the payment, offered by a government minister, was likened to accepting a favorable putt in golf – a pragmatic decision to ensure swift removal. However, critics pointed out the cost of keeping Kebatu detained would have far exceeded the £500, highlighting a difficult calculation in a high-stakes situation.
The accidental release prompted immediate changes within the prison system, with new checks implemented, including detailed instructions and increased oversight from senior staff. The Home Secretary vowed to leave no stone unturned in ensuring such a blunder never happens again, emphasizing the public’s justified anger.
Kebatu’s case originated from incidents at a hotel in Epping, Essex, where he sexually assaulted a teenager and a woman. His presence in the area had already fueled local protests concerning the use of asylum hotels. Now, with his deportation complete, authorities have declared the streets safer, reinforcing a firm message: those who commit crimes in the UK will be removed.
The incident has ignited a broader debate about the effectiveness of the UK’s immigration controls and the challenges of managing a complex system under intense scrutiny. The focus now shifts to preventing future errors and ensuring the swift deportation of individuals who pose a threat to public safety.
